New Saudi Rule Offers Major Relief for Bangladeshi Workers’ Residency Permits
Saudi Arabia has introduced an important new rule for Bangladeshi workers. Migrant workers can now renew their residency permits, known as iqamas, under a different employer. This new option applies if their original employer fails to renew the permit.
Muhannad bin Ahmed Al-Essa, Saudi Arabia’s Deputy Minister of Labour Market Policies, announced this change. He confirmed there will be no legal problems for workers who switch employers to renew their iqama. Mr. Al-Essa made these remarks during a meeting in Dhaka this Tuesday.
Expatriates’ Welfare and Overseas Employment Minister Ariful Haque Chowdhury hosted the Saudi delegation. The Saudi Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs for Consular Affairs, Mohammed AM Alshammari, also attended.
The Saudi government will also consider granting clemency to Bangladeshi workers imprisoned in Saudi jails. This consideration will happen if Bangladesh provides detailed information through diplomatic channels.
During the meeting, Bangladesh made several requests. It asked to renew two key agreements on worker recruitment. These are the Domestic Workers Agreement and the SVP Agreement. Bangladesh also proposed holding a Joint Technical Commission meeting. This meeting would discuss worker recruitment, training, and welfare issues.
Bangladesh also suggested creating a joint technical training center in Bangladesh. This center would improve workers’ skills and teach Arabic. It would also educate them about Saudi laws and customs. Bangladesh also sought Saudi cooperation in recognizing technical qualifications. This would help skilled workers find jobs in healthcare, construction, and information technology.
Minister Ariful Haque Chowdhury thanked the Saudi delegation. He highlighted the friendly relationship between the two countries. He noted that Bangladeshi workers contribute to Saudi Arabia’s growth. Their remittances also play a vital role in Bangladesh’s economy.
State Minister Md Nurul Haque asked Saudi Arabia to recruit more skilled workers. This would help meet labor demands for the 2034 FIFA World Cup. He also urged better protection and rights for female domestic workers from Bangladesh. Md Mokhter Ahmed, a ministry secretary, requested clemency for prisoners before the holy month of Ramadan and Eid.
Deputy Minister Al-Essa expressed strong interest in hiring skilled Bangladeshi workers. He mentioned sectors like healthcare, construction, and hospitality. He also informed that Saudi Arabia has introduced systems like the Wage Protection System to protect workers’ rights. He reaffirmed that clemency for prisoners would be seriously considered.
